*Narrator pov*
As summer's end approached, Hogwarts Castle stood as an ancient bastion against the changing seasons. The lush greenery that surrounded the magical school shimmered with the warmth of late summer. The Black Lake mirrored the azure sky, reflecting the anticipation of the forthcoming school year.
In the castle, the halls echoed with the return of the professors. The towering oak doors swung open, revealing the majestic Entrance Hall adorned with floating candles and the Sorting Hat awaiting its annual duty. The enchanted ceiling displayed a tapestry of sunset hues, bidding farewell to the lazy days of summer.
As the professors gathered for their staff meeting, the Great Hall exuded an air of anticipation. The long, polished tables were set with pristine tableware, and the ghosts of Hogwarts drifted about, sharing tales of their summer hauntings. The Sorting Hat rested on the head table, seemingly aware of the magical energy that accompanied the imminent arrival of students.
The aroma of freshly brewed potions wafted from the dungeons, signaling the return of Professor Slughorn to his domain. The courtyard buzzed with the magical creatures of Hagrid's care, heralding the return of his enthusiastic lessons.
In the staff room, the fireplace crackled with warmth as professors exchanged tales of their summer adventures. Professor McGonagall's stern exterior softened with a subtle twinkle in her eye, and Professor Flitwick couldn't resist showing off a new charm he had discovered over the break.
The shifting staircases creaked softly as the enchanted castle prepared itself for the bustling energy that would soon fill its corridors. Portraits whispered among themselves, eager to witness the latest crop of witches and wizards who would soon call Hogwarts their home.
As the professors took their seats in the staff meeting, the air hummed with the collective magic that bound Hogwarts together. The castle, now awakening from its summer slumber, embraced the return of its caretakers, ready to embark on another year of mystical excitement.
Morpheus walked through the doors and walked toward his seat, "Looks like I showed up right on time," he said with a small smile
Professor Abara laughed "You were cutting it close,"
"Morpheus, I'm glad you could join us I didn't think my letter reached you," Albus said while telling the elves to prepare some drinks and snacks
Morpheus took his seat while replying, "Ah, I was a little busy and didn't receive the letter until recently. It seems everyone is in good health I'm glad we can all teach with each other again," he addressed the room
"I'm excited to see what my lions start practicing in the Commons again," Minerva said with a light chuckle
"Hopefully some interesting things," Morpheus replied with a mysterious smile
"Now, I think it's time to start this year's staff meeting," Albus said when the food arrived
Everyone in the room awaited the headmaster's next words, a sad look shone through Albus's eyes, "To start the meeting I would like to take the time to address the elephant in the room. Over the summer several attacks were carried out by a group of dark wizards resulting in numerous deaths. The loss of innocent witches and wizards is a saddening event that we should all approach carefully as some students have families that were one of those very victims,"
The room gained a heavy atmosphere, everyone had the attacks on their mind but didn't think Albus would bring them up as the first subject.
"Vice versa we need to think of the students who now have 'missing' family members. I know that their disappearance is at the same time as the deaths of the dark wizards but we must handle the children with care let us not have them waver onto the path of no return," The word missing was clearly spoken as if Albus thought they were still alive
Everyone in the room knew what he meant. Do not pin the sins of the parents on the children.
"I agree, those poor children should come to school feeling safe," Morpheus said with a sad look on his face as if he wasn't the one that killed them
Albus had to hold back his look of astonishment at Morpheus's acting skills. The man looked as if the deaths were weighing heavily on his very soul.
"I'll pay extra attention to my snakes," Slughorn said clearly knowing what Albus meant
Albus nodded, "Passing the heavy discussions I would now like to broach onto the topic of clubs and class schedules. Class Schedules as you know are not strict you have a lot of freedom. But, with how things are turning outside of these walls I would hope you teach some practical skills, nothing dangerous of course,"
Professor Yowie spoke happily, "I agree, I will be teaching a more practical use this year, along with my dueling club activities,"
"Good, seeing you mentioned the dueling club I have an announcement," everyone became curious, "I was approached by the headmasters and headmistresses of several schools wondering if we could attend joint dueling exchanges,"
"That would be wonderful!" Professor Abara said with a giant smile, "This would broaden the student's experience,"
"I agree, this is a good opportunity," Filius added
"Very well, I will set up the meetings," Albus said while writing down something in a book
As the meeting progressed many topics were discussed, from how the professors felt about adding more guest lectures to the dueling club to how the Quidditch equipment was.
Eventually, the meeting ended, "That will be all for today thank you all for attending I wish you luck in planning your schedules," Albus chuckled looking at his large planner
As the professors began to file out of the room Morpheus was left alone with Albus. Before leaving Filius gave Morpheus a long look as if he was contemplating saying something.
Shaking his head the charms professor left.
"You were brutal," Albus said sipping his tea
Morpheus chuckled, "You must be brutal to your enemies," his voice cold as ice
Albus didn't reply right away, "It did work in the end, Tom seemed to have backed off for now,"
Morpheus shook his head, "A tactical retreat he saw his followers being hunted and he couldn't do anything about it. He was beginning to look weak, Tom is most likely going to be bolstering his forces now. I wouldn't be surprised if the recruiting this year will be more brutal,"
"We will be prepared, this year the students will learn many things," Albus said with a faraway look in his eyes
Morpheus stood from his seat, "I will speak to you shortly I need to sort out my thoughts then I will share more information,"
"Do visit at any time," Albus said with a cordial nod
Leaving the room Morpheus spotted Filius waiting for him in the hall. Before Filius could say anything Morpheus spoke, "Best forget you ever saw me there my friend," he held a small calm smile on his face
Filius was unnerved by the smile, but he knew this was not the time, "Of course, have a good rest of your day Professor,"
That night the castle was full of planning and scheduling. Everyone was getting ready for the first day of school.
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A/N: Patre on : patreon.com/Boogie324